shwisha wrote:I'm thinking of trying Bloodlines next or Castlevania 3 (got 50% through once). I really have no interest in beating/playing Castlevania 2.
If you're avoiding Castlevania 2 based on its less than sterling reputation, it really is worth trying out. In a series known for it's stellar music, Simon's Quest featured the first appearance of some songs that are now considered classics within the series. Also although some folks disagree with me on this, I feel like Simon's Quest more than any other game in the series up to that point, set the gameplay pieces in place which would reappear later in the now legendary Symphony of the Night.
Minor Castlevania III spoiler:
If on the other hand you're avoiding Simon's Quest based on past personal experience with the title ... uh, never mind and carry on.

There are certainly better games within the Castlevania series. Despite that though, Simon's Quest does hold an important position within the series, much more so IMO than some of the post-SOTN cookie-cutter titles appearing on the GBA and other systems, which were fine games but ultimately forgettable.